Sen. Allen Concerned About Escalating Border Violence

Sen. Sylvia Allen, the incoming chair of a new Senate committee on border security, is expressing concern over the killing of a U.S. Border Patrol agent.

U.S. Border Patrol Agent Brian Terry was killed Tuesday night in a shootout with border gang members who prey on immigrants and smugglers. Four suspects are in custody.

“It seems like this violence is not only escalating, but moving north from the border,” says Sen. Allen, a Republican from Snowflake. The killing of Agent Terry happened near Rio Rico, in a spot more than 15 miles from the U.S.-Mexico border.

The tragedy happened in the district of Senator-elect Gail Griffin, also a member of Allen’s committee.

“The death of Agent Terry is unfortunate and outrageous. Our sincere condolences go out to his family. You are in our prayers,” said Griffin.

“This administration and Homeland Security have ignored the problems on our borders too long. This is another American death due to failed federal border policies,” says Griffin.

“What will it take to get their attention? Secure the border and keep Americans safe. Do your job and stop this out-of-control violence. We need to give the Border Patrol agents the equipment they need. Our borders are not secure.”

Allen was disappointed to hear that a conference call organized by U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano with border sheriffs did not include Cochise County Sheriff Larry Dever and Pinal County Sheriff Paul Babeu.

“I hope this isn’t a case of playing politics with border security. Those two sheriffs needed to be on the call, and they weren’t even aware of it,” says Sen. Allen.